Here Are 25 Dinners That You Can Make in an Hour or Less

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Here Are 25 Dinners That You Can Make in an Hour or Less

These 25 dinners are ones you can whip up in an hour or less. These recipes are all about making your life easier and cutting down on kitchen time. They’re great for those evenings when you’re short on time or just don’t feel like putting in too much effort. We’re talking straightforward steps and common ingredients that come together to make something great for your mealtime.

Chicken pot pie soup with peas and carrots in a bowl.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Stuffed bell pepper casserole in a pan with a wooden spoon.
Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole is a delicious one-pot weeknight dinner idea that is easy enough for beginner cooks to make — no stuffing vegetables required. It comes together in only 45 minutes for a filling and flavorful family meal.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Bell Pepper Casserole

Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

A baking sheet filled with vegetables and sausages.
Sausage And Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Sheet pan dinners always turn hectic weeknights into a breeze. In this dish, you’ll arrange the sausages and vegetables, pop them in the oven, and just wait until everything is perfectly caramelized and fork-tender. Ready in just 30 minutes with everything cooking in just one sheet pan for convenience, it’s a smart choice for anyone pressed for time, especially when you need a wholesome meal without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Dinner

Hungarian Mushroom Soup

A bowl of Hungarian mushroom soup with a spoon.
Hungarian Mushroom Soup. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This soup’s simplicity makes it perfect for any cook looking to prepare a hearty meal on a busy night. Ready in 45 minutes and made in just one pot recipe, sauteed mushrooms simmer in a creamy broth seasoned with aromatic spices, sour cream, milk, and butter. Serve it with your choice of bread, salad, or veggies for a complete, hassle-free dinner.
Get the Recipe: Hungarian Mushroom Soup

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

A casserole dish filled with pasta and peas.
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a perfect weeknight family meal that takes less than 1 hour to make. It’s straightforward to prepare and reheats well, so any leftovers will make for a convenient meal tomorrow.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Sausage Curry

A bowl of rice and sausage curry on a table.
Sausage Curry. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

For a hearty meal without the fuss, try this one-pan Sausage Curry. It mixes sausages with vegetables in a savory curry sauce, creating a filling dinner that will keep everyone busy until the last bite. Ready in 45 minutes, it’s a simple but impressive way to introduce exciting flavors on a busy night.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Curry

Cabbage and Sausage

Cabbage and sausage in a pan with a wooden spoon.
Cabbage and Sausage. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Get dinner on the table in just 25 minutes with this cabbage and sausage stir-fry. Cabbage is so delicious when paired with a protein like sausage. The steps are easy to follow, and with simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, it’s a great option for a relaxed, effortless dinner. Make this for last-minute dinners when you need something wholesome and hearty but still packed with so much flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage

Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

A skillet full of meat and rice with a spoon.
Creamy Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice Skillet. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s both quick to prepare and hearty, this meal with ground beef and cauliflower rice is a great pick. You’ll mix ground beef, cheddar cheese, cauliflower rice, and mushrooms in just one skillet for convenience. It takes 30 minutes to cook, making it a great go-to for those evenings when you’re short on time but still want a hearty meal. This dish is also freezer-friendly, so if you have leftovers, you can easily store them and enjoy the same delicious flavors later.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Ground Beef Skillet with Cauliflower Rice

Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Chicken pot pie soup in a bowl with peas and carrots.
Chicken Pot Pie Soup, Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Here’s a recipe that will let you enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of the classic chicken pot pie in soup form. Ready in just an hour, this one-pot meal combines protein, veggies, and carbs for a balanced and filling dinner. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending too much time cooking. Plus, the leftovers will taste just as great the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prep, too.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie Soup

Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

A casserole dish filled with broccoli and cheese.
Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

You can have this warm and hearty casserole on the table in just 30 minutes. This dish uses frozen veggies like broccoli and cauliflower for convenience. The veggies are mixed with a creamy sauce, topped with cheese and bacon, and baked until bubbling and golden, all in one baking dish. It’s very easy to make, making it a great go-to when you need a quick and hearty meal on a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Cheesy spinach and chicken casserole.
Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

If you’re looking for a quick and hearty dinner, here’s a chicken and spinach dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. It combines chicken thighs, cream cheese, mozzarella, and spinach, all baked to create a comforting meal. This recipe is great for those nights when you need something warm and hearty without spending hours cooking.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Chicken Bake

Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

A pan with shrimp, tomatoes and spinach in it.
Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This recipe features shrimp cooked with grape tomatoes and spinach in a garlic sauce, seasoned with smoky paprika and a hint of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s an effortless and impressive way to enjoy a hearty seafood dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Garlic Shrimp and Spinach

Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

A fork is being used to take a piece of Philly cheese steak casserole out of a dish.
Philly Cheese Steak Casserole. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

This cheesesteak casserole is a quick solution for a flavorful dinner, ready in under an hour. A fun take on the classic Philly cheese steak sandwich, it brings together the same classic ingredients like steak, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and provolone cheese but is baked into a casserole for convenience. This dish is perfect for busy evenings when you’re craving something comforting and flavor-packed. It also stores and reheats well, making it a practical option for meal prep. 
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheese Steak Casserole

Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Two bowls of sweet potato and red pepper soup with sour cream and parsley.
Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup, Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Here’s a warm and creamy soup that will warm you up in just an hour. After you have the ingredients prepped, all you have to do is sauté, simmer, blend, and garnish. This recipe combines the creamy texture of sweet potatoes with the sweetness of red peppers, all in just one pot. It’s a practical dinner any day of the week, especially when you want to enjoy a homemade meal without spending all evening in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Red Pepper Soup

Fajita Baked Chicken

Fajita baked chicken in a baking dish with salsa and sour cream.
Fajita Baked Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This recipe lets you have a fun and flavorful dinner in just 30 minutes. Seasoned chicken breasts are baked with cream cheese, sweet peppers, and mozzarella, making this a warm and hearty dinner that both kids and adults love. It’s an easy way to shake up dinner routines and a great choice for busy evenings, especially when you’re looking for a quick and hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Fajita Baked Chicken

Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Cheesy spinach and sausage casserole with a wooden spoon.
Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Featuring ground beef, cauliflower rice, mushrooms, spinach, and cheddar cheese, this one-skillet meal is perfect for those evenings when you’re looking for a hearty option but don’t have much time. Ready in just 30 minutes, it combines protein and vegetables seamlessly, ensuring you get a balanced meal quickly and without any hassle.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice and Spinach

Creamy Dijon Chicken

A pan with chicken, spinach and bacon in it.
Creamy Dijon Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This one-pan dish is a great go-to when you’re short on time but still want something that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish features chicken thighs simmered in a creamy Dijon mustard sauce with spinach and crumbled bacon. Pair it with cauliflower rice or veggies for a complete meal that’s perfect for those busy evenings at home.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Dijon Chicken

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A pan with bacon and cabbage in it.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Here’s a hearty dish you can make in just 25 minutes. Using only one pan, you’ll saute cabbage, bacon, and onion together, adjust the taste to your preference, and then serve. It’s the perfect recipe for those busy evenings when you want something quick, easy, and flavorful. Serve it as a side or a light main course for a wholesome and filling dinner.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

A skillet with chicken in a creamy mushroom sauce.
Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This one-pan recipe is simple to make and uses ingredients you likely have in your kitchen. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish cooks chicken thighs in a creamy mushroom sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and Parmesan cheese. Serve it with rice, pasta, or your favorite veggie side for a complete and filling dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Thai meatballs in a skillet with a wooden spoon.
Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Get a taste of Thai flavors on your dinner table in 30 minutes with these coconut curry turkey meatballs. Ground curry meatballs simmered in a homemade coconut curry sauce that comes together in just minutes on the stovetop. This dish is hearty and full of flavor, perfect when you need a quick dinner that brings some excitement to your weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

A skillet filled with chicken in a tomato sauce.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Made in just one pan and comes together in just 30 minutes, this dish is one of the best comfort dinners there is. Chicken thighs are cooked in a creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and garnished with Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and freshly cracked pepper. It’s easy, hearty, and, best of all, won’t leave you with a ton of dishes after.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken

Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Chicken with spinach and cream sauce in a skillet.
Creamy Tuscan Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Tuscan chicken is a delicious and rustic dish originating from the Tuscany region in Italy. Ready in 40 minutes, it combines chicken thighs, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach in a creamy sauce, all cooked in one pan for convenience. This one-pan meal is perfect for a busy night when you want something delicious without a lot of work. It’s filling enough to serve on its own or with a side, making your dinner routine a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tuscan Chicken

Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon

A white bowl of asparagus noodles with bacon and sauce.
Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This dish is a creative, veggie-filled alternative to traditional pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, you’ll peel the asparagus into noodle-like strips, cook them like pasta, and generously mix in the Alfredo sauce and crispy bacon. It’s an easy and fun way to include more vegetables in your meals, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Noodles with Alfredo Sauce and Bacon

Keto Zuppa Toscana

Two bowls of soup with bacon and kale.
Keto Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Plays Well With Butter.

For a modern take on the classic Olive Garden-inspired Zuppa Toscana, this version uses radishes instead of potatoes, which adds a nice crunch and perfectly mimics the texture without the extra carbs. The warm, creamy base features the savory flavors of garlic, sausage, radish, and kale for a light and wholesome meal you can enjoy in just an hour. Make this when you’re looking for a comforting dinner on busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana

Creamy Garlic Chicken

A white dish with chicken breasts in a creamy garlic sauce.
Creamy Garlic Chicken. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

Chicken breasts are cooked in a flavorful sauce of Parmesan, garlic, and heavy cream, creating a simple yet impressive dish. This one-pan dish can be served in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when you want a delicious dinner without the long prep time.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Chicken

Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

A pan filled with chicken in a creamy sauce with artichoke hearts.
Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This one-pan recipe brings together juicy chicken thighs and artichoke hearts simmered in a rich, creamy sauce with a touch of lemon. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and can be served in just 30 minutes. Make this for weeknight family dinners or date nights for an impressive and flavorful meal that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Skinless Chicken Thighs with Artichoke Hearts

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